Human Powered Vehicles, recumbents and trikes

Human Powered Vehicles (HPVs) is a broad term for various cycle types: recumbents, tricycles, fully enclosed vehicles, load carrying bikes etc.

Recumbents

Recumbents are the main type of Human Powered Vehicles. They are ridden in a sitting or lying position on a large seat, with legs pedaling out front.

Because the rider is basically horizontal, recumbents can offer less wind resistance than conventional bikes, and therefore go faster for a given amount of rider effort.

With a large seat, the weight of the rider is not concentrated on the bottom and the wrists.

Speed

Because of their inherent speed, recumbents are banned from many competitions, and recumbent bikes hold all bicycle speed records where there is no restrictions on design.

Health

Many people turn particularly to recumbents for health reasons: notably lower back and wrist pain. But you don't need a health reason. Recumbents are simply lots of fun.

Safety

Children and adults often use three wheel trikes as a result of a range of physical limitations - from mild balance problems to more severe disabilities. Some manufacturers make seats with safety belts and adjustable back supports.

For more

See links (right) for information, associations, event organisers and manufacturers.